This issue intertwines closely with the events of Tales to Astonish #69, regularly referencing the ongoing Hulk storyline and even showcasing several shared panels to connect the two narratives. Readers who are following Hulk’s journey may find value in reading that issue first, but it’s not strictly necessary to enjoy this story. The overlap feels like a clever marketing tactic, but thankfully it doesn’t disrupt the core Avengers tale.

The story focuses on the newly-formed Avengers as they navigate the challenges of training and teamwork. Their pursuit of the Hulk leads them into a cleverly orchestrated trap set by the Mole Man. Though the Mole Man underestimates the Avengers, his plan introduces a dangerous foe, the Minotaur, and creates a thrilling confrontation that tests the group’s cohesion.

Characters & Development

This story is largely about seeing the new team work together, and find their footing. Perhaps the best moments are in the thoughts not shared with each other. We have both Quicksilver and Hawkeye thinking that they should be the leaders while we have Rick Jones feeling left out, like he has been ‘part’ of the team longer then the others, but still does not get to be a part of it.

The training scenes add humor and charm, showing the team attempting to outshine each other before finally uniting against their enemies. By the end, the beginnings of genuine camaraderie and trust are evident, signaling promising growth for this new iteration of the Avengers.

Originality & Continuity

This issue ties very closely to Tales to Astonish #69, which works both for and against it. The shared panels between the two stories are an interesting idea, but the overlap raises some continuity concerns. For instance, Rick Jones appears in both stories, yet his movements don’t quite add up. Here, we see him at the beginning of the Avengers’ mission, yet in Tales to Astonish, he shows up at the end, finding the Hulk when the Avengers fail. Given the short time span and Rick’s lack of comparable resources (no direct jet, for instance), his ability to move between these events so quickly strains believability.

At times, it feels like there are two different versions of Rick: one operating within the Avengers’ storyline and another existing alongside the Hulk. Seeing these simultaneous events play out side by side highlights the inconsistency, which hurts the narrative’s flow. That said, if someone has an explanation that ties these threads together better, I’d be open to changing my view.

Story & Art

The narrative strikes a balance between action and character dynamics, centering on the team’s growth rather than just their mission to find the Hulk. While the quest is engaging, the plot leans heavily on its connection to Tales to Astonish #69, sometimes to its detriment. The Mole Man’s trap adds an exciting layer of conflict, but the resolution feels rushed, and some of the story beats hinge on coincidence.

The visuals are solid, with dynamic action sequences and expressive character work that captures the team’s tension and growth. The shared panels with Tales to Astonish are a highlight, seamlessly blending the Avengers’ and Hulk’s narratives.